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The hornet, many species of wasps and wild bees including bumblebees are under species protection.

Many of these species belong to the state-forming insects. Their colony dies after the summer, only the queens hibernate and form a new colony the next year. In wild bees, which do not form colonies, the larvae survive in breeding burrows. They fulfil important functions in the natural cycle. Hornets and wasps regulate the species structure of insects, bumblebees pollinate flowers with their long proboscis that bees cannot reach. Honey bees provide a bountiful harvest in the orchard.

Most species are harmless and do not attack humans if they are undisturbed. Only two species of wasps are interested in sweet drinks or food.

The nests are built in natural caves (e.g. woodpecker burrows) or in artificial cavities such as attics. Sometimes nesting or shutter boxes are also populated. The nest area (about 4 meters around the nest) is defended by the insects, if necessary by stinging. The following disorders should therefore be avoided:

• violent, rapid movements
• longer adjustment of the trajectory
• Vibrations of the nest
• Manipulation of the nest or flight hole
• direct inhalation of the animals

A hornet sting is no more dangerous than a wasp sting for normally sensitive people. Outside the nest area, the animals are peaceful. Caution should be exercised in case of bee venom allergy.

In exceptional cases: relocation of the nest

In the event that humans are endangered by the insects, an exemption for the relocation of the nest can be applied for at the relevant lower nature conservation authority of the district. Before thinking about relocating or removing the nest, the following measures can help:

• Separating the nest in the attic from the rest of the living space with a thin-meshed net
• Closure of the nest area with a fence at a distance of about 5 meters
• Attaching a screen

Note: You can also find advice on site at nature conservation associations or beekeepers.

• Wasp protection campaign
• Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland e. V.

Submit a written request with the following information:

• Which type of insect to remove (wild bees, bumblebees, wasps, hornet)? If necessary, clarify in advance by phone
• Location of the nest on your property or at your house (address, location sketch)
• Justification for relocation or control (e.g. location directly next to windows, doors, involvement of small children or allergy sufferers)
• Date for resettlement or control
• If you hire a company to do this: Name and address of the company

Lower Nature Conservation Authority

• § Section 45 (7) No. 1, 2 or 3 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act

Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Climate Protection of the State of Brandenburg